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Glite Dictionary
🐘 A natural pool 🍻 A bar or pub 📡 A radio region
waterhole

waterhole

9.9
A radio frequency range in space that people use to search for signals from other life
  • noun
  • /ˈwɔːtərhoʊl/
  • Specialized
translation icon : frecuencia de agua
  • Radio telescopes are tuned to the waterhole when listening for possible extraterrestrial messages.

Examples

  • The waterhole is considered a promising frequency range for interstellar communication.

  • Scientists often search the waterhole for signals that might indicate intelligent life beyond Earth.

  • The waterhole allows for clear interstellar communication.

  • Scientists are studying the waterhole for potential signals.

  • Scientists often search the waterhole for signals that might indicate intelligent life beyond Earth.

  • Radio telescopes are tuned to the waterhole when listening for possible extraterrestrial messages.

  • The waterhole is considered a promising frequency range for interstellar communication.

Surface Forms

waterhole singular
waterholes plural

Morphology

waterhole = water + hole (opaque) = water + hole

Although formed from 'water' + 'hole', this is a specialized technical term (radio astronomy/SETI) whose meaning cannot be derived by typical learners from the components.

Etymology

In space science the word waterhole was chosen because the quiet radio band sits between signals related to hydrogen and a part of water, so it is like a little 'water' place in space. Scientists call this waterhole a good spot to 'listen' for possible signals from other life.